Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are festive, chewy dessert bars loaded with patriotic-colored M&Ms and chocolate chips. Perfect for Memorial Day, 4th of July, or any Americana-themed gathering, these cookie bars are quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser with their buttery base and colorful candy topping.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbaking sodasaltunsalted butterbrown sugarsugarlarge eggvanilla extractred, white, and blue M&Mssemi-sweet chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.

Fold in most of the M&Ms and chocolate chips, reserving a handful to press on top.

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.

Sprinkle the reserved M&Ms and chocolate chips on top, gently pressing them into the dough.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still soft.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 20-25 minutesCooling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Use peanut butter M&Ms or mini M&Ms for a twist.

Add chopped pretzels for a sweet and salty combo.

Drizzle with melted white chocolate for extra flair.

Swap red, white, and blue M&Ms for seasonal colors to enjoy year-round.

storage/reheating

Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.Refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months.Thaw frozen bars at room temperature and microwave for 10 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

Do I have to use a 9×13-inch pan?

You can use a smaller pan for thicker bars—just increase the baking time accordingly.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Are these bars chewy or cakey?

They are chewy with crisp edges and a soft center.

Can I mix other candies into the dough?

Absolutely—chopped candy bars or Reese’s Pieces work great.

Can I use all brown sugar?

Yes, it will yield a softer and richer texture.

How do I keep the bars from drying out?

Store them tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to retain moisture.

Can kids help make this recipe?

Yes, it’s a fun and easy recipe for kids to assist with.

Do these travel well?

They hold up well for picnics, potlucks, and lunchboxes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or bake in two batches.

Conclusion

Red White and Blue M&M Cookie Bars are a vibrant, fun treat that’s perfect for patriotic holidays or any festive celebration. With a chewy texture, bursts of chocolate, and colorful candy, they’re easy to make and even easier to love. Bake up a batch and bring a little red, white, and blue sweetness to your next gathering.